The Office of the President has recently approved the allocation of P124 million for the purchase of the Mindeva property and the construction of the fleet marine detachment in Rio Hondo.

Mayor Beng Climaco said the funds will be released to the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Philippine Navy is now coordinating with the DND for the implementation of the project.

Rio Hondo was one of the staging areas of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) rebels under the faction of Nur Misuari during the September 9 siege that paralyzed activities in Zamboanga for over 20 days.

The establishment of the military security camp was based on the post conflict needs assessment (PCNA) conducted by the Office of Civil Defense and other agencies.

The establishment of the military facility in the area is expected to help ensure security in Rio Hondo and the neighboring areas considered as vulnerable to lawless elements and other illegal activities.

Mayor Climaco has sought the intervention of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin to intercede for the expeditious release of remaining funds under the Zamboanga City Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction (Z3R) Plan as well as the funds needed by the sectors listed in the PCNA document.

The Z3R plan is a P3.5 billion package, as approved by President Noynoy Aquino. Of the total amount, P2.56 billion has been downloaded for shelter, land acquisition, land development, assistance and contingencies. — Sheila Covarrubias